CONvergence is a Minnesota con that has been running since 1998. From their alliances with various groups to covering a variety of SF, they’re well-established but also always seeking new ways to do things. I was pleased to find that they do several career events, which isn’t surprising considering their legacy. Also Michael Lee was glad to tell me about their current plans:
First, they’re doing networking gatherings both at the convention between conventions. I love this idea because it keeps up the networking beyond the convention itself, and beyond the attendees.
Secondly, they focus on serving the community, evolving with people’s needs. So the panels of one year may be different a few years later. This is important to adjust to changing markets.
Third, they have projects for the convention that are professional-level work. An example is an animated short made in 2012. It encourages networking, career building, and of course is a nice portfolio filler.
Fourth, they ally themselves with other geek groups, like the Geek Partnership Society (http://www.geekpartnership.org/). They take the convention experience farther.
Convergence-Con’s long legacy and professional events are well worth exploring. If you’re in Minnesota, check it out – and maybe volunteer . . .
Steven Savage is a Geek 2.0 writer, speaker, blogger, and job coach. He blogs on careers at http://www.fantopro.com/, nerd and geek culture at http://www.nerdcaliber.com/, and does a site of creative tools at http://www.seventhsanctum.com/. He can be reached at http://www.stevensavage.com/.